Christmas markets, lights switch-ons, Santa's grottos, pantomimes, carol concerts and festive days out, gathered in one place. From town-centre switch-ons and craft fairs to winter light trails and steam-train Santa specials, here's what's on near you this Christmas, with dates, times and prices so you can plan the season.
Friday afternoon in Ware
1
· 15:00 – 19:00
Hertford Christmas Gala & Lights Switch-On
Hertford's Christmas Gala fills the historic county-town centre with festive cheer, kicking off from 3pm with entertainment on stage from 4.30pm and building up to the big Christmas lights switch-on at 6pm.
It's free to attend, and the same weekend the Christmas market opens in the castle grounds just around the corner, so it's well worth making an evening of it with a browse and a warming drink.
2
· 15:30 – 20:00
Hertford Castle Christmas Market
The grounds of Hertford Castle, with the old gatehouse as a handsome backdrop, host a festive Christmas market over the weekend of the town's lights switch-on. Wander the stalls for gifts, crafts and seasonal food and drink in one of Hertfordshire's prettiest settings.
Open Friday 27 November 3.30pm–8pm, Saturday 28 November 11am–6pm and Sunday 29 November 11am–5pm. Pair it with the Christmas Gala in the town centre on the Friday evening.
Friday evening in Ware
1
· 15:00 – 19:00
Hertford Christmas Gala & Lights Switch-On
Hertford's Christmas Gala fills the historic county-town centre with festive cheer, kicking off from 3pm with entertainment on stage from 4.30pm and building up to the big Christmas lights switch-on at 6pm.
It's free to attend, and the same weekend the Christmas market opens in the castle grounds just around the corner, so it's well worth making an evening of it with a browse and a warming drink.
2
· 15:30 – 20:00
Hertford Castle Christmas Market
The grounds of Hertford Castle, with the old gatehouse as a handsome backdrop, host a festive Christmas market over the weekend of the town's lights switch-on. Wander the stalls for gifts, crafts and seasonal food and drink in one of Hertfordshire's prettiest settings.
Open Friday 27 November 3.30pm–8pm, Saturday 28 November 11am–6pm and Sunday 29 November 11am–5pm. Pair it with the Christmas Gala in the town centre on the Friday evening.